By: Elijah Maingi.
The music industry is growing very fast with many young men and women being absorbed by the industry. Let’s trace the musical journey of this talented young man.
- Tell us more about yourself.
My name is Samuel A. Seka alias Sese Panda from Vihiga County in Western Kenya. A 22-year-old musician, dancer, designer, director, drawing artist, and motivational speaker.
- Coming up, did you ever think of becoming a musician?
Growing up, I wanted to be a pilot in the army (air force) but my brothers discouraged me arguing that anyone could be in the army without a higher education level. I, therefore, changed my mind about becoming a bank manager, but later in 2010, I heard of Diamond Platnumz the Tanzanian Bongo star who inspired me with his way of composing songs and performance techniques. I began mimicking him and things have since then changed.
- When did your musical journey start?
When I began singing Diamond Platnumz’s songs my close friends branded me as ‘the Kenyan Diamond Platnumz’ and in 2017 I began downloading Diamond’s music beats and composing my version of lyrics. I wrote my first song in 2018 but recorded it later in 2020. As of now, I have written more than 200 songs but have only recorded less than 7. Deke Deke was my first song, in which I featured my blood brother Kasahboy.
- How has the journey been so far?
The journey is tough, demanding, and disappointing at some point. It is still the sweetest journey I’ve ever walked. People might promise to support you but end up disappearing. The most challenging part of it is that doing music without money can get you worn out and even give up easily except if you’re a dedicated soul. When things aren’t working out as you wish or expect them to, it might cause depression.
- Who is your mentor and role model in music?
It is Diamond Platnumz. I can say that he’s the greatest musician East Africa has ever had and how he does his music skillfully is the same way am I trying to do mine. I borrow his skills from listening to and watching his music.
- What are some of the roadblocks which you encounter in the music industry?
Financial instability to produce and market my songs, facing disapproval from my parents who aren’t impressed by music especially when they hear of the scandals that musicians usually have in which they don’t want their son following that path. This is just a fraction of the problem which upcoming artists encounter.
- Where do you usually get support to produce your music?
Some of my older friends, random music promoters, deejays, and MCs have been funding my music. I’m still a student and not yet employed, its tough most of the time, even now, I have like 50 songs that need production but as usual, money is an obstacle.
- Despite all the challenges in the music industry, what motivates you most?
The fact that Diamond Platnumz’s life story is similar to mine and he still made it through I feel motivated. I believe that ordinary people can choose to be extraordinary.
- What’s your plan for the next half a decade?
To be an African music giant, and an award winner and take Kenya to where Diamond Platnumz took Tanzania music-wise.
- Your closing remarks as well as a word of advice to all aspiring artists.
I would say that music is the divine way to tell beautiful, poetic things to the heart and where words fail, music speaks. To my fellow artists, you can get a little down now and again. Sometimes we need a little help to get back up where we should be but always be motivated and stay positive.
Aoma Keziah 
Jerameel Kevins Owuor Odhiambo 
Mt Kenya Times